It is in everyone’s plan to ensure they always have a roof over their head. Implied in the saying is that the roof should be in good condition. After all, it would not too matter much if the roof allows in water or flaps with the wind. It’s therefore important to properly maintain the roof for leaks and other problems.

However, despite taking proper care of your roof and regular roof maintenance, at time will come when you simply need a new roof. Below are some signs to look out for to determine if you require a new roof:

Cupped or Curling Shingles

If your shingles are not in proper condition, water can seep through resulting in structural damage. Causes of shingle damage include aging, improper installation and poor quality materials.

There is no other way to fix extensive shingle damage except to replace the roof. A roof inspection is recommended at least once yearly to check for shingle damage among other things. It is advisable for roof inspection to be carried out after extreme weather e.g. wind storms.

Ceiling Spots

If you notice spots on the ceiling, it might be time to get a new roof. Ceiling spots are caused by water trickling in through roof leaks. If the spots are numerous or are spreading fast, it’s a sign you need to replace your roof.

Missing Shingles

As your roof ages, is exposed to strong winds, extreme temperature changes etc., shingles start getting broken or are pulled off. Worn out shingles sometimes fall off of their own accord, a sure sign your roof needs replacing.

Missing shingles allow in weather elements like rain and snow, damaging your home. They should be replaced as soon as possible.

Damaged Flashing

Damaged flashing is a clear sign that your roof needs replacing. This is especially so if your flashing is still made of tar or cement, which should be replaced with metal sheets or if your roof’s shingles are made of asphalt which requires step flashing.

Causes of damaged flashing include drying and cracking of a roof, the house settling, dents, natural forces and improper installation. Ensuring your roof’s flashing is in proper condition prevents structural damage and its becoming your roof’s weak point.

Rotting Shingles

Shingles made of organic materials like wood are the one most liable to rotting. Shingle rot is cause by accumulation of moisture. If you notice that some of the shingles are rotten, it is time to get the roof replaced. The rest of the shingles will start rotting soon. Fixing them in time saves you from having to deal with an emergency.

An Aged Roof

There comes a time when repairing the roof isn’t an option or is too costly. Roofing experts recommend that you replace your roof after 20-25 years. If your home was built at around the same time as those in your neighborhood and your neighbors are replacing their roofs, you should consider doing it too. It means they are having problems with their roofs and replacing it in time could save you a lot of headaches.

There are other signs that the roof’s aging calls for replacement. The need for constant repairs, the roof being in a bad condition or being extremely discolored and worn out are all signs that your roof may be approaching the end of it lifespan.

Streaked or Stained Exterior Walls

If you notice that there are water streaks or stains on your exterior walls, it shows that the roof is not properly doing its work. This can lead to structural damage and problems such as mold growth, which is a health hazard.

You should have such a roof inspected immediately. Most likely, it has other problems too. If the streaks/ stains are too extensive, the most viable remedy is to repair the roof.

Other signs your roof might require replacing include missing granules, loose gutters and excessive moss growth.